Q: Could we be charged with abandonment for leaving my wife’s sister at a rehab center?
She’s lived with us for years and we’ve paid for all of her expenses. But now she’s disabled and we can’t take care of her. She has no Medicare coverage because she never worked consistently enough.
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A:
Leaving your wife’s sister at a rehab center, especially if you’ve been her primary caregivers, can be a complex situation legally and ethically. The key is to ensure that she is not left without necessary care and support. It’s important to communicate clearly with the rehab center about her condition and your inability to continue providing care.
Before taking any action, consult with social services or a legal advisor to understand your obligations and rights. They can guide you on the best steps to take, including finding alternative care options such as state-funded programs or other forms of assistance for disabled individuals who lack Medicare coverage. This will help ensure she continues to receive the care she needs without you facing legal repercussions.
It’s also crucial to document your efforts to seek help and communicate with authorities about her care. By taking these steps, you can demonstrate that you are acting in her best interests and not simply abandoning her. This will help protect you from potential charges of abandonment while ensuring she gets the appropriate care and support.
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